1,800 events for 1916 commemoration

More than 1,800 community events are planned for the 1916 commemorations next year. Exhibitions, music shows, heritage projects and visual shows and lectures will all form part of events around the country.

Taoiseach Enda Kenny and his ministers yesterday launched the programme for the 31 areas.

“There is no parish that doesn’t have some connection which should be worthy of commemoration next year. The story and events of 1916 belongs to all of us regardless of political or family background, or personal interpretation of our modern history,” he said.

“I am delighted the local authorities have reached into the heart of the communities you represent to ensure that next year will be a truly inclusive one where all citizens’ views can be listened to and respected,” he added.

There will be a series of events to commemorate the signatories of the 1916 proclamation and the Rising figures, with one for each authority in the country.

It is thought that thousands of relatives of those who fought in the Rising have also expressed an interest in participating in a parade which will be held on Easter Sunday. Mr Kenny also pointed out that events would be held to remember those who had died fighting elsewhere.

More than 100 historical events will be held in Co Cork in 70 locations. In Fingal, Co Dublin, events for young people will include those from new Irish communities and involve poetry, theatre and film. In Offaly, a documentary is being made about Peadar Bracken and Eamonn Bulfin, who participated in the Rising following his return from Australia and Argentina.

In Co Tipperary, artist Gavin Freeborn will engage the public about 1916. In Co Wexford, there will be a presentation to the descendants of the Irish volunteers and Cumman na mBan who took part in the 1916 Rising.

Tánaiste Joan Burton said there were a range of programmes on which events would be based.

“I’m also delighted to see that the role of women in the events of 1916, which was largely forgotten in the commemorations of 1966, has been rediscovered. Rosie Hackett is, of course, just one example, but a very notable one.

In Co Cavan, the Museum Quilters Group, Cavan Library Craft Groups and others will design a quilt depicting the role of women in Irish history.

In Co Galway, a seminar will take place in Ballinasloe on the role of women in 1916 with specific focus on Cumann na mBan.

Blind Spots in Cork City, a major visual arts installation by Aideen Barry, artist and grand-niece of Tom Barry, will explore the position of women in Ireland across the 100-year period.